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Plastic bags for prem babies?

A study involving neonatal intensive care units worldwide is examining whether placing premature babies in special plastic bags for the first hour or two of life can help reduce heat loss, increase their chances of survival, and improve long-term health.

Rapid loss of body temperature is a common and potentially deadly problem that occurs when amniotic fluid on the newborn's skin begins to evaporate. Placing premature infants in plastic may help keep them warm while they undergo necessary medical tests, the Canadian Press reported.

Small pilot studies have suggested that this is an effective technique.

The Canadian-led study will include 1 685 premature infants, born at 28 weeks gestation or less, who will be randomly assigned to be placed in a plastic bag or receive standard treatment. The type of bag being used in the study doesn't cover the head and has an opening that gives doctors and nurses access to the umbilical cord, the CP reported. – (HealthDayNews)

Read more:
Pregnancy Centre

October 2007

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